Jollof Rice with Fried Chicken Drumsticks

TABLE OF CONTENT

  • Introduction
  • Ingredients
  • Preparing the Chicken Drumsticks
  • Heating the Oil
  • Frying the Chicken Drumsticks
  • Making the Nokos Paste
  • Cooking the Nokos Paste
  • Combining the Chicken and Vegetables
  • Preparing the Rice
  • Cooking the Rice
  • Final Touches

Introduction

Jollof rice is a beloved West African dish, celebrated for its deep flavors, vibrant color, and aromatic spices. This one-pot dish combines perfectly cooked rice with tender, flavorful chicken drumsticks. Ideal for family meals and celebrations, this step-by-step guide ensures that every component of your dish is cooked to perfection.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Jollof Rice and Crispy Fried Chicken

1 medium onion

2 strips of spring onion

1 large paprika

1/2 cup tomato paste

6 chicken drumsticks

3/4 cup sunflower oil

750ml water

Salt (to taste)

971g rice

Pepper (to taste)

1 Scotch bonnet (optional, for heat

A cooking preparation setup featuring sunflower oil, uncooked rice in a white bowl, tomato puree, an onion, red peppers, and chicken drumsticks, all arranged on a black countertop with a decorative 'GAYE' sign in the background.

How to Season and Prepare Chicken Drumsticks for Jollof Rice Perfection

  • Rinse the chicken drumsticks thoroughly and remove the skin if desired for a leaner dish.
  • Season the drumsticks with salt, ensuring even coverage.
  • Set them aside to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
Raw chicken drumsticks placed in a large silver mixing bowl, ready for seasoning or cooking preparation.

Oil Heating

  • In a deep saucepan, preferably a traditional one, pour in the sunflower oil.
  • Heat the oil until it becomes warm and slightly sizzling, ready for frying.
A close-up of oil being poured into a large, well-used silver cooking pot, showing a reflective surface with natural wear marks.

Perfectly Fried Chicken Drumsticks for West African Jollof Rice

Carefully place the seasoned drumsticks into the hot oil

Fry until the chicken turns golden brown.

Remove the fried drumsticks and set them aside. (They will continue cooking with the rice later

Six raw chicken drumsticks frying in a hot pan of oil, beginning to turn golden brown, as part of the cooking process.

How to Make Nokos Paste – The Flavor Base for Jollof Rice

In a blender, combine onion, spring onions, and paprika.

Blend until smooth and lump-free to create a thick aromatic paste.

A small piece of chili pepper sautéed in heated oil, preparing for the next cooking steps.

Cooking Nokos Paste for Rich, Authentic Jollof Rice Flavor

Using the same pot with the flavorful chicken oil (or a fresh one), add the blended paste.

Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Add tomato paste and mix well. If the paste starts drying out, add a splash of water.

Cook until the paste deepens in color and becomes fragrant.

A pan filled with a vibrant mix of yellow vegetable sauce, chopped green peppers, and a dollop of rich red tomato paste being stirred during the cooking process.

Infusing Chicken and Vegetables into Flavorful Jollof Sauce

Pour 750ml of water into the pot with the cooked Nokos paste.

Stir until well combined.

Return the fried chicken drumsticks to the pot, ensuring they are fully coated.

Add vegetables like bell peppers and carrots for extra flavor and color.

Cover the pot, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 15–25 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

A pot of bubbling stew with whole red peppers and vibrant yellow oil on the surface

How to Cook Authentic Jollof Rice to Perfection

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Drain thoroughly.

Once the sauce is rich and well-seasoned, remove the chicken and vegetables from the pot and set aside.

Adjust salt levels to taste. (For this quantity, 2 teaspoons of salt is recommended.)

A pot of vibrant orange stew being mixed with uncooked white rice and a bay leaf, preparing a flavorful dish.

Turning the Rice

Add the washed rice into the pot and stir to evenly coat each grain with the tomato sauce.

Reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it cook undisturbed.

After 10 minutes, carefully turn the rice to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Continue cooking until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes fluffy

Bright yellow rice grains perfectly cooked, showcasing a fluffy and flavorful dish with a hint of a bay leaf for added aroma.

Serving and Garnishing the Best Jollof Rice and Fried Chicken

Spoon the Jollof rice onto a large platter or individual plates.

Top with the fried chicken drumsticks.

Garnish with fresh lime wedges or parsley for extra flavor and presentation.

Serve with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or fried plantains for a complete meal.

A beautifully plated dish of cooked rice with vegetables and rich flavors, ready to be served.

Enjoy Your Delicious Jollof Rice!

This step-by-step method ensures your Jollof rice is flavorful, fluffy, and paired with perfectly seasoned fried chicken. Whether for a casual meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress! 🍛🔥